210 forum tackles water rules

Mar. 31, 2014

How to attend

Water  or the lack of it  and how our lives will change this year as we attempt to conserve as much of it as possible, is the focus of discussion at the 210 Connect community forum this month.

The forum is scheduled for 7-8:30 p.m. April 14 at 210 W. Center Ave. in Visalia.

Water management is a complicated issue and implementing stricter water rules, as most California cities are doing, can set off a firestorm of debate.

Whether you agree with some scientists about the effects of climate change, the water situation is not likely to improve anytime soon and we will all need to make changes in our lifestyle and our attitude.

Western states are going to be hit much harder in the coming years, but the arid California Central Valley where we live will become a growing concern as water allocations dry up and demand for crops continues to grow.

On top of that, the residents of this area need to know what practical steps they can take to conserve water while preserving the quality of life they value.

Understanding whats ahead is key.

This month, the Visalia Times-Delta and First Presbyterian Churchs 210 Connect community forum will be all about water and will try to provide answers to some of the questions we hear from residents:

 What are cities and counties doing to conserve water?

 Why does the watering schedule have to be so specific?

 How much water are we using today, and how much can we expect these measures to save?

 What relief is there for the businesses that depend on water?

 What is the economic impact of the drought on farmers?

The 210 Connect expert panel will consist of representatives from the city of Visalia, the California Water Service Company, the Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District and the Master Gardener program of the UC Cooperative Extension.

We want our audience to go home with a better understanding of the water situation in our area as well as some useful tips on how to conserve water and get through the drought without pulling up lawns.

If you have questions youd like to submit beforehand, please contact Community Conversation Editor Melinda Morales at 735-3277 or mmorales@visaliatimesdelta.com.

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